Maryport Trawler Race 2009

On Saturday 22 August I was invited to join the Maryport Trawler Race as photographer for the event. The race organiser is one of my work colleagues so offered me the opportunity to photograph the boats. The day was perfect with calm seas and clear blue skies. I was based upon the Chelaris, a trawler from Maryport itself to get right in amongst the action.

The Maryport Trawler Race is an annual charity event that brings trawlers from Cumbria and the Isle of Man to the Solway Firth coastal town of Maryport. Fourteen boats took part in the race

The race begins in the Elizabeth Dock at Maryport with judging of the boats to determine the best dressed boat and best dressed crew followed by a blessing before the race begins. The best dressed boat award went to Sincerity, skippered by Howard Langcrake while the best dresses crew was 101 Dalmations on the Heather Maid, skippered by Michael Inglesfield from the Isle of Man.

As there are a wide variety of boats involved in the race they are each assigned an estimated time to complete a set course along the coast, with the winner being the boat to complete the course in the closest time to its estimated time. This ensures a fair race for all boats rather than just relying on top speed alone.

First place went to Rebecca, skipper Sid Miller, second was Wendy Sue, skippered by Darren Little, while third was The Way, skippered by Shaun Norman.

The race always attracts a large crowd and there are harbourside attractions and other events to keep the spectators occupied for the whole day.

Funds raised are split between Maryport Rescue independent inshore lifeboat station and other local charities. This year’s race is in memory of three local fishermen who died at sea a month ago when their scallop dredger capsized.

I have collection of further images available here.